Introduction
Have you ever looked up at the sky and wondered when the full moon will be visible? The full moon is a fascinating natural phenomenon that can be observed from anywhere in the world. In this article, we will explore the science behind the full moon and when it can be seen.
What is the Full Moon?
The full moon is the lunar phase that occurs when the moon is completely illuminated as seen from Earth. This happens when the Earth is positioned between the sun and the moon, with the sun’s rays shining directly on the moon’s surface.
During this phase, the moon appears as a bright, round, and fully illuminated disk in the sky. It is the brightest and most visible phase of the lunar cycle, making it a popular subject for photographers and skywatchers alike.
When does the Full Moon Occur?
The full moon occurs once every 29.5 days, which is the length of the lunar cycle. This cycle is determined by the moon’s orbit around the Earth, which takes approximately 27.3 days to complete.
However, the exact timing of the full moon can vary slightly due to the elliptical shape of the moon’s orbit. This means that the moon’s distance from the Earth can affect the exact moment when the full moon occurs.
How is the Full Moon Named?
The full moon is named after the month in which it occurs. For example, the full moon in January is known as the “Wolf Moon,” while the full moon in February is called the “Snow Moon.”
These names were originally given by Native American tribes and were based on the seasonal changes that occurred during each month. Today, these names are still used by many people to refer to the full moon.
When is the Next Full Moon?
The timing of the full moon can be easily predicted using a lunar calendar. This calendar shows the exact date and time when the full moon will occur each month.
According to the lunar calendar, the next full moon will occur on June 24, 2021 at 2:40 p.m. EDT. This full moon is known as the “Strawberry Moon” and is named after the strawberry harvest that occurs during June.
Conclusion
The full moon is a fascinating natural occurrence that can be observed from anywhere in the world. By understanding the science behind the full moon and its cycle, we can predict when it will occur and appreciate its beauty even more.
